Isleham Informer Festival of Light - at its colourful* best!

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1 Isleham Informer Issue 37 February Festival of Light - at its colourful* best! (*You had to be there...) Photos by Ed Mayall Once again the Festival of Light was a great success, mainly due to all who contributed with their Christmas trees. The church looked stunning and many, many complimentary comments were passed. Thanks to everyone who helped with refreshments, both providing and serving them, to all those who manned the stalls, to everyone who helped in the church, and to everyone who visited. Hope to see you all again in December 2010! Janice Pope P.S. Flower Festival is on August Bank Holiday weekend. If you feel inspired please let me know. ST JOHN AMBULANCE PAGE 4 MEET THE LANDLORD PAGE 10 1

2 SCHOOL OF MOTORING David Eavis A.D.I. & Sarah Eavis A.D.I. Fully Qualified Independent D.S.A. Instructors Hours to suit Patient, reliable and professional instructors School established for 18 years Pass plus registered Air conditioned cars All ages and abilities welcome Tel: , Little London, Isleham HIS N HERS From the Editor It was the fervent hope of the Informer that the front cover of this issue (along with three extra pages) would use this wonderful new invention of colour printing so you could all see just how marvellous St Andrew s Church looked for the Festival of Light. We also have some wonderful pictures of Isleham in the snow that would have looked just fabulous. Unfortunately, this was not to be: the funding failed us. For the April issue, we would like to correct this by encouraging sponsorship to meet the shortfall between our budget and the extra printing cost. If you would like to help with a donation, in return for the gratitude of the Informer team plus that of the entire village (and a mention of how utterly gorgeous you are!) please get in touch with Kelvin Morgan (details below). So, without further kerfuffle, it s on with the first Isleham Informer of the fi rst year of the second decade of the third millennium. Contents 1 Festival of Lights 16 PCSOs 2 From the Editor; Contacts; 17 PTA Grand Draw; Women s Advertising; Next issue Institute report 3 Announcements; Letter 4 St John Ambulance; Twinning 18 Community Centre Update 6 Book Club; Isleham Society; 19 Joyce s Corner Dial-a-Ride 20 What s on? 8 Parish Council News 21 Village clubs 10 Meet the Landlord 11 Isleham Parish 22 Churches News Action Plan 23 Council Tax CONTACTS: Editor and Design Ed Mayall T: E: ed@isleham informer.org.uk Subeditor Alison Marsh E: alisonmarsh@tiscali.co.uk Features Glenda Preece T: E: gjpreece@aol.com Mark Stevens T: Advertising Kelvin Morgan T: E: kelvin@isleham-computers.co.uk Distribution Richard Turner T: NEXT ISSUE: The next issue will be published 1st April The copy deadline for all editorial and advertising is 9th March DISCLAIMER: The Informer would like to point out that we have neither tried nor tested all of the products and services advertised in these pages and therefore cannot accept responsibility for the veracity of any claims made. City & Guilds Qualified 30 Years Experience Free Estimates

3 Priory Garage First Isleham Guide Unit is re-opening and we would like to invite you to our Opening Ceremony! Tuesday 23rd February, 7pm, St Andrew s Church, Isleham. Followed by refreshments in the Social Centre (opposite Church). To RSVP and more information please contact: Caroline Hinitt, Unit Guider: Janine Taylor, Unit Guider: islehamguides@yahoo.co.uk ISLEHAM SCHOOL PTA Annual Quiz Night Friday 5th March Per team (max 4 people) Price includes chilli/curry supper. Look out for posters around the village for more information. In aid of Fordham Pre-School All welcome Prizes Last game cash prizes Raffl e Tea and coffee Tuck Shop Victoria Hall Fordham Tuesday 16th Febuary 2010 Eyes down at 7.00pm Letter to the Editor Dear Editor, Through the Informer we would like to thank all who gave so generously to East Englia Air Ambulance Christmas Lights (Lights for Lives) at 43 Waterside, Isleham. A total of was raised. We would also like to thank the Informer, who did such a wonderful job of advertising for us. Yours sincerely, Ivan and Roberta Houghton Used car sales Renault Authorised repairs MOT testing Service & repair ~ all makes & models Tyres Exhausts Batteries Air-conditioning service & repair Priory Garage Church Street, Isleham, Cambs CB7 5RX /

4 Volunteering for Life One of the scariest moments of my life occurred in the April of 1992 in the grandstand of the Rowley Mile racecourse in Newmarket. I remember it as if yesterday. A small group of friends, we were trundling up to the top of the grandstand there were no escalators in those days. Right in front of me an elderly gentleman collapsed in the stairwell, clearly in great distress. His face had turned ashen grey and he was apparently slipping into unconsciousness. I panicked and I froze. Fortunately, one of my friends had the presence of mind to alert a security guard and in a matter of minutes a paramedic was attending to the gentleman. We later discovered that he had suffered a mild heart attack and had been speedily transported to Addenbrookes Hospital, where he recovered. Besides that image of a desperate human being came the thought what if? What if there hadn t been help available? I guess he might have died. This probably sounds a strange way to introduce the St John Ambulance service. We often associate this organisation with well-meaning ladies dispensing tea, sympathy and the occasional Elastoplast. Well, as I discovered, this is an insulting misconception of the hundreds of trained staff whom we often see, and often take for granted, at public events. And as the nation becomes more and more aware of the importance of Health and Safety, so the demand for trained staff increases. With branches in Soham, Ely, Cambridge and Newmarket, St John is looking forward to recruit and train for both the cadet branch (8 16 years) as well as the adult wing (16 70 years). Depending on the wishes and aspirations of volunteers, training, which is of course free, enables staff to progress from basic fi rst aid up to paramedic level. Hours are truly flexible and volunteers are assigned a mentor who will gently introduce them into the various disciples of care. For youngsters considering a career in the medical or public service sectors, this experience will realise an impressive bonus when it comes to applying for a job, or for higher education. Older volunteers include disabled people, the retired, mums or working adults who can offer half a day over a weekend. Having worked for nearly 30 years in the voluntary sector, I hear the same messages over and over again from new volunteers. A chance to use my brain again ; So good to become involved in the community ; I ve made more friends in the last 10 weeks that I had in the past few years ; It has brought a structure and purpose back to my life. Perhaps these sentiments will ring a bell for some readers. Eleanor Liversidge Eleanor is a full-time nurse working in Accident and Emergency at Addenbrookes Hospital. She is also the Duties Coordinator for St John Ambulance, although I think the title does her little credit. Basically she is part of a team that recruits, trains, mentors and coordinates the placements of volunteers. And she lives in Isleham. Interested parents or adults can contact her on or at elandmark@btinternet.com. When leaving Newmarket Races nowadays, I always put a pound in to the St John Ambulance collection box no matter how much I have lost with the bookmakers. What price a life, eh? Mark Stevens The Isleham Twinning Society 2009 has been a pleasant year to look back on, with events both here in Isleham and in our twin village, Nesles, in the Pas-de-Calais, France. We started off the year with the Committee having a quiet dinner together without the pressure of having to organise anything. A large group of us went to Nesles for a long weekend at the end of April, the perfect time to visit France. Experiences vary according to the family one is staying with. For example, David and I were taken for a walk round an old castle and through its bluebell-wooded grounds, were treated to a trip round the Baie de la Somme on an old steam train, had lunch on the quay-side at Le Crotoy, and went to our host s sister for coffee in the remote countryside of the region, as well as attending the formal evening meal at La Maierie. Our gift to Nesles this time was a pair of apple trees to be planted in the village, which were very well received. July saw us manning a tombola stall at the Gala, with bottles of French wine as prizes, with suitable substitutes for the under-aged. Early in September came the Safari Supper. Before you have visions of lofty giraffes, and herds of wildebeest, the supper started in Mill Street at Bryan and Pauline Wynne s with aperitifs and canapés, moved on to our house for the main course, and ended up in Sun Street with Rob and Gill Savage for an amazing selection of desserts. It was a warm September evening, and their beautiful garden provided the perfect backdrop. We are thinking of doing this again this year, so look out for the posters and tickets. After the AGM came the Carol Service at St Andrew s church Festival of Light. How quickly the year goes round, and we look forward to further events in We cannot review the year without mentioning the death of Alan Cant. Alan was a quiet, stalwart presence in the Association. He is sadly missed on both sides of the Channel. Gill Styman, 1 Mill Street 4

5 LADY FRANCES PEYTON S HOSPITAL ALMSHOUSE CHARITY ISLEHAM CAMBRIDGESHIRE Registered Charity No Almshouse Association No VACANCY 26a SUN STREET, ISLEHAM A vacancy has occurred at the above almshouse. Applications for the accommodation are being sought from qualifying persons. The accommodation comprises a single storey, semi-detached cottage with a bedroom, sitting room, kitchen and bathroom. There is full central heating. Weekly Maintenance Contributions (rent equivalent) 75 per week. To apply, persons should be resident in the Parish of Isleham in need of housing accommodation. Applicants should be over 18 years of age and be able to illustrate their need to the Trustees. Application forms may be obtained from: Michael Siggs MA FRICS, Clerk to the Charity P O Box No. 993, Colchester, Essex C03 3TQ Phone michael.siggs@btclick.com Lucas Accounting Solutions Accounting solutions for business every day Experience with sole traders, SMEs and Limited Companies Book Keeping Services Management Accounts Payroll Services (weekly and monthly) PAYE Returns and P11d Vat Returns Free initial 30 minute consultation Contact: Donna Lucas Tel: donna.lucas1@virgin.net 11 East Fen Road Isleham CB7 5SW 5

6 Book Club s Anniversary The Isleham Book Club celebrates its fi fth anniversary this year with a direct mandate from its members- WE NEED MORE MEN! There is currently what is politely described as a gender imbalance. Although the group is always well attended we currently attract 12 members there is only one male participant. This inevitably means that discussions relating to the really important topics in life football, the state of the economy, the price of beer etc. are rather one-sided. The group meets on the second Friday of each month at the Social Centre. At each session one book is selected by members, and we discuss this book at the next meeting. Books discussed are not highbrow, and members come from all walks of life. We usually finish our discussions with tea and cakes and an informal update on what is happening in the village and any other literary events in the area. It has been noted that the starting time of 2pm may be diffi cult for some mums and dads who pick up their children from school. There seems no obvious reason, however, why the group could not meet earlier in the afternoon. Anyone interested in joining can contact Deidre Deller on Finally, a note of thanks to Anna Chataway who is the founder of the group, and without whose vision and enthusiasm the village would be a poorer place. The Isleham Society Robin Page was booked to give an illustrated talk on 19th November but as we was unable to attend, John Terry kindly took his place at very short notice; he is the Conservation and Wild Life Advisor to the Countryside Restoration Trust. The CRT was established in 1993 by the Chairman, Robin Page. It was launched in response to growing fears about intensive and industrialised farming, and initially aimed to purchase land that had been intensively farmed, in order to restore it to a living countryside. It promotes a working countryside using sensitive and sympathetic farming practices that encourage and protect wildlife to produce quality food. As the CRT has grown its aims have broadened to encompass purchasing farmland and woodland where traditional farming methods, wildlife habitat and biodiversity are under threat. It now has approximately 3000 friends and manages over 1000 acres of land with properties in Cambridgeshire, Essex, Herefordshire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Surrey, Sussex and Yorkshire. The work of the Trust is a living and working example that sustainable, profitable and environmentally sensitive farming is a real possibility As there was no meeting in December, the next one will be on 21st January when the speaker will be Ian Storey telling of The History and Running of Turners (Soham) Ltd A second reminder: Footpaths of Isleham We have had a reprint done of the Footpaths Map of Isleham and have distributed a free copy to the newer households in the village. It is inevitable that we have missed some, if a new householder would like to receive one, please see me or a member of the Isleham Society and we will arrange for you to have a copy. The Parish Council also have been given some copies for distribution. Vernon Place, Chairman of the Isleham Society Ely Soham Dial-a-Ride Giving our community a lift Our buses operate in Isleham on Monday, Thursday & Friday. Ely Soham Dial-a-Ride offers a reliable pre-bookable door-to-door service, which can be used to do your weekly shopping, attend that essential local medical appointment or simply visiting friends and family. Dial-a-Ride is available to all ages. We now have available a self-drive service to go alongside our popular group hire service. These are available to local charities, social groups and non-profi t making organisations. If you need a minibus for a day out or social event give us a call, we can help. Hire of minibuses is available any day including evenings and weekends. If you want to know more, and/or request an information pack please call our Witchford office on or send an to info@esdar.org.uk or visit our website 6

7 Griffin Electrical Services Any Electrical Installation or Repair Job Undertaken, Domestic or Commercial Free Estimates Rewiring Lighting design and installation Security lighting Telephone and TV outlets Testing and inspecting Fuse box upgrades Under floor heating Home buyer s survey Extra power points Electrical showers New builds, extensions and conservatories 6 Avocet Grove, Soham, Ely, Cambs CB7 5GN Mobile: tom.griffin7@virgin.net Solicitors All Legal Work Undertaken 4b Church Street, Isleham Cambs CB7 5RX Tel: (01638) Fax: (01638) Three Cups Walk, Forehill, Ely Cambs CB7 4AN Tel: (01353) Fax: (01353) isleham@pbw.uk.com Mildenhall Monumentals We offer a sympathetic, understanding service creating unique memorials made carefully by qualified fine artists and craftsmen with over 30 years experience. ADDITIONAL INSCRIPTIONS CREMATION PLAQUES CLEANING AND RESTORATION GRANITE AND NATURAL STONE BENCHES GARDEN ORNAMENTS, WATER FEATURES, HOUSE PLAQUES, SUNDIALS... Large new showroom now open For our free brochure call: Southgate Avenue, Mildenhall IP28 7AT 7

8 Parish Council News The following are the abbreviated and incomplete versions of the IPC minutes for the November and December 2009 meetings. Any parishioner may request a copy of the full minutes from the IPC. MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING MONDAY 2ND NOVEMBER Present: Cllrs Neal, Baines, Carter, Malkin, R Thomspon, Wilkes, H Thompson, C.Cllr Beckett, 4 Parishioners Apologies: Cllrs Earl, Garbett, Hobbs, C.C. Powley, C.C. Palmer PARISHIONERS QUESTION TIME Mr Houghton brought it to the attention of the council that the Environment Agency will be dredging the river starting at the Marina bridge and working towards Prickwillow. Work will commence after Christmas. POLICE MATTERS The Neighbourhood Panel meeting was held on 6th October. There were a few parishioners from Isleham; however, still more residents are needed to make the evening more interactive. One of the issues raised was the parking situation on Beck Road this is currently being monitored. ISLEHAM COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Cllr R Thompson attended a fund-raising meeting of the ICA last week and the committee have asked if the parish council can do anything to make the village more aware of the requirements for upkeep of the current hall in order to show the benefi t of building the new centre. VILLAGE HALL MATTERS The entrance lobby to the hall was painted during the half term holiday. RECREATION GROUND MATTERS The recreation ground was sprayed and fertilised on Friday. The council will write to the YFC about the parking situation on Saturdays as the vehicle entrances to the recreation ground should not be blocked. The Shell gas tank is empty and so the showers are not working in the pavilion. The Clerk has contacted Shell but they are unable to refi ll it until the tank is replaced according to HSE requirements. An urgent message has been sent through from Shell to the planners regarding a delivery date for this It was noted by the council that the cricket square was recently vandalised; it was stamped across when it had been newly fertilised and the temporary fencing had been pulled down. CEMETERY AND CHURCHYARD MATTERS It was agreed that two notices are put up in the cemetery advising people that all ornaments should be removed from the grave spaces or they will be removed by the cemetery keeper on or after 1st January A repair will be carried out on the old cemetery wall by the cemetery keeper as soon as weather permits. It was agreed that a teak headstone is allowed to be placed on the grave of the late Tom Chipper as long as it conforms to the standard height of 3 feet. CORRESPONDENCE It was agreed that a donation of 50 be made to the Ely and Soham Dial-a-Ride service. It was agreed that a donation is sent to the CAB for 130 as previoulsy included in the budget. It was agreed that the Gala Committee are allowed to use the village hall and recreation ground on Saturday 3rd July 2009 including a dog show with terms agreed as previous years. The council will also make a contribution of half the cost of the toilets providing the cost is in line with previous years. It was agreed that the council write to OFCOM asking that the telephone box on Mill Street is retained as it is used as the emergency contact telephone from the village hall and also ask that they would make an assessment of the mobile coverage in the village as not all networks operate here. It was agreed that the parish council do not adopt the telephone box on The Causeway. HIGHWAYS AND FOOTPATH MATTERS The council will write to the occupier of the fi rst house in Croft Road as their garden fence is overhanging the footpath. The council will write to the owner of the property in Sparkes Close about the clunch wall at the back of their house, which is crumbling away and is need of repair. ALLONMENT MATTERS A letter will be sent to a tenant of the Dunstall Allotments requesting that they desist from burning rubbish other than organic waste on their allotment plot or the matter will be reffered to the Environment Agency. Prices will be sought for a gate for the front entrance to the Dunstall Allotment and brought back to a further meeting with other matters arising from the Allotment committee meeting. PLANNING MATTERS Planning Approvals Change of use of part of agricultural field at rear of the gardens of 34, 36 and 38 East Fen Road for residential amenity land at Land to rear of 34, 36 and 38 East Fen Road Isleham for Mr Russell Milne. Residential development for 6 dwellings at 55 Sun Street, Isleham for Mr and Mrs Waugh. Planning Refusals Erection of detached house and garage to the rear of existing dwelling at land rear of 8 East Fen Road, Isleham for Mr and Mrs Baines. MINUTES OF THE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING MONDAY 7TH DECEMBER Present: Cllrs Wilkes, H Thompson, Hobbs, Malkin, Neal, Earl, Baines, Garbett, Beckett Apologies: C Cllr John Powley ISLEHAM PRIMARY SCHOOL The primary school have asked the parish council to look into the possibility of an access to the play school from Jubilee Close. The council has no specifi c power available to act on behalf of the school; it was resolved that more information would be obtained and brought back to the next meeting when the council will consider whether there is anything they can do to support the request. CEMETERY & CHURCHYARD MATTERS There had been no further response regarding the consecration of the cemetery so this has been followed up and there should be further information arriving shortly. An has been received from Pooley Bendall and Watson stating that confirmation has been received from the developers solicitor that the section 106 agreement is working its way around County and District Councils for signature; it is likely to take some time and realistically probably will not be formally dated before Christmas. It was agreed that the Dial-a-Ride service is continued subject to a six monthly review. HIGHWAYS/FOOTPATH MATTERS Damaged fence in Croft Road a letter will be sent to the owner Hedge needing to be cut back on Beech Close the owner has been contacted Overgrown hedge on Croft Road by the passage a letter will be sent to the owner Uneven footpath outside the Co-op will be reported to County Council Deterioration of footpaths in Limestone Close a meeting is being arranged with Gavin Wiseman from County Council Clunch wall on The Causeway the clerk will contact Rosie Burton at ECDC A number of street lights are not working these will be reported to the County. An offer has been made by a parishioner to purchase a bench to go outside the Post Offi ce; it was considered that this would hinder access on the footpath and that as this is not an offi cial bus stop the clerk will contact Eileen Oliver at ECDC to discuss the possibility of fl ip-seating at the bus stop on Sun Street. 8

9 PLANNING MATTERS Planning Applications Construction of extension at 24 Robins Close, Isleham for Mr and Mrs Fowell. Single storey garage and single storey side extension at 5 Beech Close, Isleham for Miss S Gowland the councillors were unable to fully comment on this application as an up to date map was not provided. Approvals Proposed rear extension garden room with additions and alterations at 13 Beech Close, Isleham for Mr and Mrs Oliver. Planning Extension and loft conversion at Wayside Farm 19 Fordham Road, Isleham for Mr C Harvey. Planning Refusals 2 Storey extension and alterations to property at 17 East Road, Isleham for Mr James Bailey. Isleham Community Association Grand Yard Sale Saturday 10th/Sunday 11th April If you would like to take part in this community event phone Mark Goldsack , and you will be added to the growing list of those people who on either or both days that weekend will sell there goods from their homes. It is an opportunity to have a good spring clean and sell those things you store from year to year but never use, whilst raising money for the new Community Centre. Please join us on this weekend. Parish Councillors address list Derrick Beckett Appleyard Farm, 1 Houghtons (Chairman) Lane, Isleham CB7 5SR Tel: Terry Carter 5 Old School Close, Soham (Vice Chairman) CB7 5WD Tel: Steven Baines Emmanuel House, 8 East Fen Road, Isleham CB7 5SW Tel: Martin Earl 83 The Causeway, Isleham CB7 5TA Tel: Jeannette Malkin 17 Little London, Isleham CB7 5SE Tel: Lionel Neal 104 Beck Road, Isleham CB7 5QP Tel: Geoff Garbett 16 Croft Road, Isleham CB7 5QR Tel: Elaine Hobbs Portman House, 7 The Birches, Soham CB7 5FH Tel: Hazel Thompson 9 Limestone Close, Isleham CB7 5RP Tel: Roseanna Thompson Fenrose Farm,1 Fen Bank, Isleham CB7 5SL Tel: Pauline Wilkes 6 Limestone Close, Isleham CB7 5RP Tel: Diane Bayliss 37 Croft Road, Isleham CB7 5QR (Parish Clerk) Tel: islehampc@btinternet.com 9

10 Meet the Landlord This is the fi rst in a (short!) series of pieces introducing the proprietors and philosphies behind local hostelries. The Griffin At a time when village pubs across the country are closing as fast as Post Offi ces, it is truly heartwarming that Isleham is able to retain both services. The Griffin has recently been taken over by Michael and Gina Messing, and they bring a real community feeling to this 16th century hostelry just ask the locals. Besides the introduction of traditional beers (hurrah!), they have also introduced a restaurant, attract a regular clientele for darts and pool, and have plans for outdoor petanque, quiz teams and summer barbecues. But what really characterises a traditional pub is the breadth of customers it attracts. The Griffin a regular host to the women s football team, the Women s Institute is to have a meal there in February, families with their children (and dogs) residents from the Marina anyone who is looking for a friendly community welcome. Many older residents would associate the modern public house with canned music, pinball machines, Star Wars technology and karaoke in to the early hours. Take your dog for a sandwich and a cup of coffee you ll be surprised. Bon appetit! Mark Stevens Need reliable help? NO JOB TOO SMALL General repairs and decorating Internal and external handyman jobs Flat-pack assembly General garden maintenance and cutting back. Call Trev on Mobile Photos by Ed Mayall KARMA FARM 8 Fen Bank, Isleham Tel: / Naturally grass- and forage-fed beef 20 years selling direct from the Farm New camp-site now open see our website 10

11 Photo by Vernon Place Isleham Parish Action Plan This Action Plan was adopted by Isleham Parish Council at their meeting held on Monday 11th January A committee is to be set up to monitor the progress made in achieving the objectives identified by Isleham parishioners. The plan will be available on the Isleham village web site, Copies of the plan will be distributed to all local interest groups, and will be available from the Parish Clerk Mrs Diane Bayliss. 11

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15 Plumbing, Heating & Drain Services BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED Gas Boiler Service & Maintenance Power Flushing to Heating Systems Home Buyers CCTV Drain and Plumbing Surveys All Plumbing & Heating Repairs and Alterations All Work Guaranteed TEL: MOBILE: Ness Road, Burwell Cambridge, CB25 0AA Unit 8 Hall Barn Industrial Estate Hall Barn Road Isleham Cambridgeshire CB7 5RJ Tel: Fax: sales@aztekservices.co.uk Website: Intruder alarm systems Gate automation Closed circuit tv Access control Dda door automation Traffic barriers Smoke screen systems 15

16 PCSOs Barb Neill and Ian Hawkins There has been a sudden increase in vehicles getting broken into around our area lately between Fordham, Isleham and Chippenham. The most common items stolen from vehicles are Sat Navs and mobile phones. The simplest advice I can give to help prevent you maybe becoming a victim of this is to simply not leave any valuables in your vehicle. I know that a lot of us think well it will be ok for just one night. That one night might be the unlucky night that somebody breaks into your vehicle. Please take extra care in ensuring that you remove all your valuables from your vehicles. If you are shopping and stop somewhere, make an effort to at least hide any valuables out of sight. This should only be a temporary thing but if it is out of sight, it s out of mind. We have now launched a dedicated phone number for people with communication diffi culties. The police enhancement access line (PEAL) is available 24 hours a day for non-emergency calls for anyone who has a communication diffi culty. Those wanting to use the system must register fi rst to ensure their details are already in the system. They will then be given the dedicated number, which allows them to contact specially trained call taker. The scheme can be used for all non-emergency calls. In the event of an emergency people should always call 999. For more information about the scheme contact the police service centre on or visit the force website The following changes are being introduced to improve how we police the district: 1. We have a very dedicated group of volunteer Special Constables in the district who routinely come out and assist us when we need them. They have now been paired up with regular full-time offi cers and allocated a specific beat which is improving the effectiveness of the neighbourhood policing team. A new improved training package has been introduced to recognise the specialist role of Neighbourhood Policing. This new approach has already produced some good results. 2. The Off Road motorcycle training has now been completed and you should see the bike routinely deployed in areas where this type of response can have the best results. Its purpose is to deal not only with rural crime, such as machinery thefts and hare coursing, but also dealing with the anti-social use of motorcycles in built up areas. 3. The times offi cers patrol Ely city centre and outlying villages has been varied to better meet the needs of the public and respond to calls for service. What this means is that there are now more neighbourhood offi cers patrolling later into the night to tackle local priorities. The offi cers have been given specific patrol tasks which includes all areas subject to antisocial behaviour and violent crime. 4. Speedwatch has proved to be an enormous success. It is enabling my officers to be more effective by allowing them to focus their enforcement action where the speedwatch scheme has identifi ed locations and times of speeding within the villages. I want to say a very public thank you to those volunteers who provide very valuable data. 5. Neighbourhood Watch is an area where we need to do better and we will be working to improve the fl ow of information to our Coordinators. I will update on progress in my next review period. What have we done for you lately? - In addition to tackling the neighbourhood priorities, the team have been very busy addressing criminality across the district. Between 01/09/2009 and 30/11/2009 the team have arrested over 153 offenders across the neighbourhood and executed 7 search warrants for stolen property and drug offences. Notable crimes and incidents - Cannabis seizure in Burwell. Your East Cambs Neighbourhood Team executed a drugs warrant in the village where cannabis resin and herbal cannabis with an estimated street value of 196,000 was seized. In addition, 15,000 in cash was seized from the occupant. A local man has been charged with possession of drugs with intent to supply and is going through the court process. In Stretham a local man was arrested, charged and has been convicted of aggravated vehicle theft and is now serving a period of imprisonment. Juveniles from Ely and Littleport have been arrested and charged with offences of burglary and in Sutton a juvenile has been reprimanded for a racially aggravated public order offence. These are but a few of the offences that I have picked out. I hope in future to have a far more detailed breakdown for each of the Panel areas. We have noticed in all the villages in the area there is still some inconsiderate parking and some illegal parking. The illegal parking is dealt with by a Fixed Penalty notice costing the owner of the car 30. When you leave your car for whatever reason please park it appropriately and legally and be considerate to other road users and pedestrians. 16

17 PTA Grand Draw 2009 Prize Details Winner Details 1st 100 Les Beckett 2nd Hamper Mrs M Rattle 3rd Newmarket Race Jill Bercovici Tickets 4th Merry Monk Meal Ian for two 5th MOT Priory Garage Stephen Allen 6th Hiedrick Adrian Sheldrick Champagne 7th Brewery Tour Mrs Blaber 8th Single Malt Whisky Mr & Mrs Crouch 9th Eric Tennant 20 Andrea Edwards Voucher 10th Gin G Nicholas 11th Wine Debbie Thompson 12th Luxury Manicure J Gilbert 13th 10 Tesco Gift Card Mrs A T Welsh 14th 10 Shoe Tree Sammie Voucher 15th Paddington Bear James Millar 16th Quality Street Mr & Mrs D Thompson 17th Roses Mrs Jakes 18th Quality Street Liat Churley 19th Cambridge Ian Monopoly 20th Quality Street Mr G Radford 21st Cheese Platter Rachel Jakes 22nd Children s Selection Lorraine Bedford 23rd Children s Selection Leanne Dunsmuir 24th Jigsaw Les Beckett 25th Stationery Set R Threadgold 26th Milk Tray Mrs Nicholas 27th Green & Blacks John Gowing Chocolate Women s Institute We began 2010 with a talk from Maureen Penney on Improving your Health Naturally. Members were interested in Maureen s idea, and we agreed that the New Year was a very good time to think about diet and exercise. The AGM is in February, when committee members will be elected and our Jumble Sale is 1 2pm on Saturday 20th February in the Village Hall. Speakers for the next few months are: March 11th Keith Mutton Birds of Prey. April 8th Bob Scott Glass Blowing May 13th Margaret Haynes Haunted Ely We are a very friendly group who meet at the Village Hall at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of each month, and all are welcome. If you would liker more information please get in touch. Glenda Preece ; gjpreece@aol.com FORDHAM ROYAL BRITISH LEGION CLUB THE HEART OF THE VILLAGE! We are open every night (Fridays from 4.30pm) plus Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday lunchtimes. Regular Live Entertainment, Sporting Teams and Tournaments, Quiz Nights, plus much, much more Entertainment Coming Up 6th February PAUL NEON & THE SAINTS 20th February GLAMTASTICS Glam rock band 6th March MACCA 5 man band 70s music right up to today 27th March BUTTERSCOTCH Pop/Rock Female vocal 4 piece band Come along and enjoy our friendly atmosphere! For details, contact the Club on or pop in for a drink and try us out for yourself! Carpentry Services Established 1970 For all General Carpentry and Building Work No Job Too Small Tel: Mob: Grant 34 Sun Street Kitchens/Bathrooms Doors/Windows Interior. Exterior Maintenance 17

18 Karen s Grooming All your pet s grooming requirements on your doorstep Community Centre Update As you would expect, we have been concentrating most of our efforts on more accurately determining, and reducing, the funding gap referred to in the last issue. Much work is going on, currently behind the scenes, notably on establishing and trying to reduce building costs. You will obviously be updated when there is something tangible to report. On the subject of reporting, this is my last update. The ICA held its AGM on 7th January, at which I stood down as Chair. I have fulfi lled the role for three years and feel it is time for new blood. If one likens the past three years to a relay race, it cannot be won in the fi rst two or three legs, but it can be lost during this time. I feel I have handed on the baton with a good chance of winning good luck to the rest of the team. As you know, teams perform better with the spectators behind them, so please give them your support. They have, by and large, a thankless task and would be heartened to know that you are supporting, and where possible, helping them. See you at the Grand Opening. Philip Aspland Isleham Holistic Therapies Remedial Deep Tissue Treatment and Mobilisation for sports injuries, back and neck pain, chronic joint and muscle problems Aromatherapy Treatments and Massage for headaches, insomnia, sinuses and relaxation Sally Norrington-Stacey (L.C.S.P.) Qualifi ed and insured with 20 years experience. For more information without obligation, please phone

19 JOYCE S CORNER I m glad the old year s gone at last, Though I have good memories of the past. There are lots of things I hope to do With a new great grandson to look forward to. I look out of my window and I can see Squirrels that run up the walnut tree. Leaves fell like confetti to the ground: They fell so gently without a sound. Snow has fallen day after day. Now it is time that it melted away. I still have bulbs I need to set With ground so hard that it won t be yet. The bushes are full of berries this year. Now the gulls will start to appear. There are so many birds I daily feed, They all love the scraps with bread and seed. We have a club where we sew and knit. I like a hobby that s not keep fit. Threading a needle s a bit of a chore, And it s hard to pick up if it falls on the floor. Hurry up March when we alter the clocks, So I can leave off my pink bedsocks. Bulbs will come up, snowdrops in bloom, The warm Spring weather can t come too soon. Joyce Drayton MONKHOUS E CARPENTRY SERVICES LTD. Carpentry & Building CITY & GUILDS QUALIFIED FREE ADVICE & QUOTATIONS For all carpentry and building work KITCHENS WINDOWS & DOORS EXTENSIONS RESTORATION GENERAL MAINTENANCE For a professional & reliable service Darrell Monkhouse 5 East Road, Isleham Tel: Mobile: W.R. PARR Antique Furniture Restorers Established in Cambridge 1928 Station Road, Isleham Tel: All aspects of furniture restoration and repair work Including Marquetry Turning Veneering French polishing Carving Upholstery 19

20 INFORMATION Thursday bus from Isleham to Ely Market Circular route: 9:15am Limestone Close Malting Lane Beck Road The Causeway East Road Sun Street Church Street West Street Hall Barn Road Fordham Road arrive Ely 10:00am; Return 12:00 noon. Fares: Adult Bus Pass Holders 2.50 Return Adults 5 Return Our buses are accessible to all, however to improve customer service, wheelchair users and those with small children requiring booster seats are advised to contact Ely/Soham Dial-a-Ride in advance: Ely Soham Dial-a-Ride This service is fi nancially supported by Isleham Parish Council. Mobile Library Stops alternate Thursdays. Next visits: 1st, 15th and 29th October, 12th and 26th November. For more information phone Stop Arrive Depart Church Street 10:25 12:05 Beck Road (near Malting Lane) 12:10 13:05 Mill Street (corner of Limestone Close) 14:15 16:00 Child Health Clinic Soham Child and Family Team Child Health Clinic will be in Isleham Village Hall with the Tea & Toast group on the second and fourth Thursdays every month from 10 11am. For more information phone Naomi Greener on Useful phone numbers Emergency for Police, Fire, Ambulance Police (Cambridgeshire) Accident & Casualty (Addenbrooke s) Addenbrooke s Hospital (Cambridge) Newmarket Hospital West Suffolk Hospital (Bury St Edmunds) Staploe Medical Centre (Soham) - Appointments Prescriptions & Dispensary Enquiries, Home Visits, Emergencies Minor Treatment Centre, Ely NHS Direct (for advice) Electricity Emergencies Gas Emergencies Water & Sewage Emergencies Social Services - offi ce hours out of hours emergency Refuse Collection RSPCA Citizens Advice Bureau Ely Mildenhall Newmarket District Councillor (Derrick Beckett) Isleham Village Hall (Jeanette Malkin) Parish Council (Diane Bayliss: Clerk) Member of Parliament (Jim Paice) ISLEHAM SCHOOL PTA proudly present their 27th Annual Pantomime Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs Wednesday 17th March 2010 Saturday 20th March 2010 Performances 7pm & 2pm (20th only) Adults 6.00 Concessions 4.00 Registered charity no.: Fordham Pre-School Would like to invite you to a Nearly New Sale at the Victoria Hall Fordham on Saturday 6th March, 10am 12noon. 50p entrance fee. If you would like to become a seller please contact Donna Thompson: or Louise James: Isleham WI JUMBLE SALE in The Village Hall Saturday 20th February at 2.00pm Bric-a-brac Books and toys Tombola Household goods Clothes Refreshments Cake stall Admission 20p Children free Thompson s Farm Meat Fenrose Farm, 1 Fen Bank, Isleham Tel: Quality beef, pork and bacon and ham, all from our traditionally run family farm Opening hours at the Farm (All major Credit and Debit Cards accepted) Monday CLOSED Tuesday 3pm-6pm Wednesday CLOSED Thursday 3pm-6pm Friday 3pm-7pm Saturday 10am-4pm Sunday 10am-noon Saturday stall 8am noon next to Priory Garage We will soon be able to accept ALL major Credit and Debit Cards at the stall 20

21 Village clubs: information If you would like details of your club meeting times to appear here, please contact Glenda Preece on: or CLUB CONTACT TEL DAY/DATE TIME PLACE Art Group Sally Tuesdays 7 9pm Village Hall Book Club Diedre Deller Alternate Fridays 2pm Social Centre Brownies Annette May Thursdays pm Village Hall Busy Bees Mel Jones Tuesdays am Village Hall Craft Club Hazel Thompson Tuesdays pm Social Centre Cubs Angela Dann Tuesdays pm Village Hall French Francine Francine@the Monday pm 1 Church St Conversation waytofrance.com Gala Committee Fred Preece rd Monday 8pm The Griffi n Isleham Society Vernon Place rd Thursday 7.45pm Village Hall Keep Fit: Aerobics Parris Williams Thursday 7 8pm Village Hall Pilates 8 9pm Line Dancing Andrew Palmer Mondays pm Village Hall Little Stars Drama Stephanie Eustice Tuesdays pm Village Hall Paper Craft Evening Victoria Rattle nd Friday 7.30pm High St Church Ruth Bendall Ruth Bendall Wednesdays 4.30pm Village Hall School of Dance Saturdays 9am Village Hall Tea & Toast Claire Freeman Thursdays am Village Hall W.I. Glenda Preece nd Thursday 7.30pm Village Hall The Griffin Open all day from 12noon lunchtime throughout the week Serving food from 12 2 plus 6 9pm Coffee and tea available Pleasant garden behind pub with aviary and children s play equipment Catering for business meetings buffets, functions etc. Restaurant seating for up to 32 Forthcoming attractions: On Valentine s Day you will be serenaded with music from Jacen Bruce We are also offering a special 3 course menu Saturday 6th March: Machine (band) 21

22 High Street Church Sunday Services: All are welcome to our Sunday services throughout the year. Morning Worship: 10.30am All ages are very welcome from the very young to the very old. The children have their own activities. Evening Fellowship: 6.30pm A less formal service usually with opportunity for individual sharing. Come and hear about God s goodness! Tea, coffee and good conversation are available after both the morning and evening services! On Sunday mornings the following children s facilities are available: Crèche is available for babies and tots up to 3 years old: the crèche workers are very experienced and provide a safe, fun playtime for the little ones. Junior Church for those who are aged 3 to 7 is a fun-fi lled session with singing, crafts, drama and stories. The older Junior Church meet at the Village Hall. This is for children who are 7 to 11 years old (that s the noise you ve heard from the Village Hall on a Sunday morning!). Their morning starts from 10am with a craft, followed by a wide range of activities encouraging the children to discover the Christian faith for themselves. We would love to see some new faces and visitors would be made very welcome! Nikao is the name for the 11 to 14 year olds and on a Sunday morning they receive teaching that is relevant to pre-teens/ teenagers. On a Friday night this group meets socially and they all have a lot of laughs! Weekly Activities Are you interested in how to stay active in later life? If so, we are running an exercise class for the more mature on Monday afternoons at 2pm at the Chapel. Our Rendezvous Group for the more mature among us meets every Tuesday afternoon at 3pm. Around 60 to 70 of us enjoy this time together each week but new faces are always welcome. Luncheon Club is for those of retirement age and happens once a month on the second Wednesday from 12 2pm. An excellent meal for just 2 not to mention the great company! Numbers are limited for this but please contact us if you are interested. For anybody who would like to come along to either of these groups there is free transport available where necessary. Perhaps you d like to be kept informed of any outings we arrange, or you need help to complete some paperwork such as benefi t forms, or perhaps you don t know who to ask for help with transport for hospital visiting. Pleae don t hesitatate to ring we d love to help if we can. For further details on any of the above, please contact Kathryn on or the Church Offi ce. Little Lambs is our parent/carer and toddler group which runs term time Fridays from Parents/carers can relax with a coffee while the children play. Each week we have a craft activity, juice time and end the morning with singing. All welcome! CHURCHES NEWS 22 Alpha (Tim Malkin ) This Course is currently running during the Spring term. If you would like details about joining in with any future Alpha Courses we run please feel free to contact Tim Malkin or the Church Offi ce. Now internationally acclaimed, this introduction to Christianity is widely accepted as an effective modern day tool to reach those who do not know Jesus. Each evening has an easy social setting, teaching and discussion and is open to all. Marriage (Paul & Anne Claringbold ) Building a strong and healthy marriage that lasts a lifetime. This 8 week course is designed to both help and strengthen marriages and includes teaching on signifi cant topics such as the art of communication, resolving conflict and having fun together. Each couple s privacy is respected and there are no group discussions. There are also lots of other midweek activities taking place so whether it be on a Sunday or midweek, we would love to see you. Why not come along or give us a call to fi nd out more. For more information about any of the events at High Street Church or general advice, call Jane or Sharon in the Church Office on or Paul Hedger (Church leader) on or go to Three Rivers Group St Andrew s Parish Church Regular Church Services Sundays: The main service is at 9.30 am. Junior Church is in the Social Centre, and in church the third Sunday of each month for All Age Worship. Midweek services Mon Weds: 9am Morning Prayer, Fordham Thurs, Fri: 8.15am Morning Prayer Fordham Monday: 3.30pm Evening Prayer Kennett (in school in term time) Tuesday: 4.30pm Evening Prayer. Limestone Close (Last Tuesday of the month, Holy Communion) Wednesday: Evening Prayer 4.15pm Snailwell, Holy Communion 5.30pm Chippenham Weekly Activities Tuesday: 9am 12 noon: Coffee Morning in Social Centre Friday: Choir Practice 6.30pm in church. All welcome. Contact Mark Liversidge Bell ringing practice 7.30pm beginners welcome! Contact Ruth Ogden, the Tower Captain, for more information Sundays@6. Our Youth Group Our Youth group meets twice a month at the Old Vicarage in Isleham; we hope that many other young people will join us. Details from Rev d Kate or Rev d Mike. Priests The Rev d Mike Banyard banyardmg1@ yahoo.co.uk. The Rev d Kate Peacock kate. peacock@btopenworld.com Churchwardens Rob Savage: , robert. savage[at]islehamchurch.org.uk; Nick Carver: , nick.carver[at]islehamchurch.org.uk Tower Captain Ruth Ogden: , ruth. ogden[at]islehamchurch.org.uk

23 Choir Director Mark Liversidge: , mark. liversidge[at]islehamchurch.org.uk Webmaster Andrew Stephens: / Service Sheet Editor Rob Savage: robert. savage[at]islehamchurch.org.uk For more information about the Group and St Andrew s please visit our web site at Council Tax Stay ahead of the game be prepared. Preparations are now underway to produce the Council Tax bills that will be issued to everyone in March. Our aim is to help our customers to avoid getting behind with the bills in these diffi cult times. One way we can do this is to make sure your account is set up correctly, using the method of payment you choose to use when the bills are fi rst issued. Below are all the alternative ways you can make payment, many of which require no formal setup. If you do not want to change your current method of payment used last year, you do not need to take any action. If you would like either a stress free, easily maintained Direct Debit or, make payment in the community at your local Post Offi ce or PayPoint you will need to contact us to set this up. To set up a Direct Debit: Contact us on to set this up. Please have your account details to hand. Alternatively you can complete the Direct Debit mandate on the website at To receive a Payment Card to use at the Post Offi ce or PayPoint: Contact us on or counciltax@ angliarevenues.gov.uk please state your account reference, name and address. If you used a payment card to pay last year you can continue to use the same one, there is no need to request another. You do not need to contact this offi ce if you wish to use any of the following methods of payment. By telephone: you can make a payment over the automated telephone line using your debit card. Please telephone or Over the Internet simply log onto our website at www. eastcambs.gov.uk and click on payments or and click on make a payment A Standing Order can be set up using the following information. Co-Operative Bank plc, Cambridge Branch, sort code: , account ref: quoting your council tax account reference. By post: Send a cheque made payable to East Cambridgeshire District Council to The Grange, Nutholt Lane, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 4EE. Write your account number on the back of your cheque. (Post dated cheques are not accepted.) Cash is not accepted at any of the East Cambridgeshire District Council offi ces. ANGLIA GAS & ELECTRICAL DOMESTIC SERVICES Sales Service Repairs Installations Boiler & central heating servicing & repairs Essential electrical repairs & maintenance Plumbing repairs & maintenance Domestic gas appliances installation & repair Electrical appliances installation & repair Natural gas & LPG landlord safety checks PAT testing For a reliable, efficient & friendly service Contact: Jim Perry Tel/fax: Mobile Lyn Kiernan and her team extend a warm welcome to you at their NEW UNISEX HAIR SALON HAIR 2000 Ladies, gentlemen s and children s hairstylists Established in Cambridge for 30 years! Competitive prices Experienced stylists OAP special rates on Mondays and Tuesdays We offer a wide range of perms, colours, hi-lights, low-lights, cutting and styling Cut & blow-dry from 23.50; perms from 35 Call in and see us at 4 Church Street, Isleham or phone

24 The Rising Sun Sun Street, Isleham. Tel: FOOD SERVED Friday and Saturday 12 noon to 2pm and 7pm to 9pm Sunday Lunchtime Roast (advisable to book) ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY Friday 5th: Karaoke with Baz/LaLa Saturday 13th: Karaoke with Clive Friday 26th: Live Music - Jacen MARCH To be confirmed: Quiz Saturday 20th: Band - Halo Friday 27th: Karaoke with Clive OPENING TIMES Monday: 7pm to 11pm Tuesday to Thursday: 12 noon to 3pm & 7pm to 11pm Friday and Saturday: 12 noon to 12 midnight Sunday: 12 noon to 10.30pm 24